Anaheim, CA (March 15, 2012) - NOW Foods founder Elwood Richard was among the first inductees into the Hall of Legends at Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California. The Hall of Legends celebrates those individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and evolution of the natural products industry.

The award was presented at the NutrAward reception, Thursday, March 8, 2012, at the Anaheim Hilton. Sixteen people who have devoted significant portions of their lives building the natural products industry into the major industry it is today were honored as the Class of 2012. Inductees ranged from natural retail to research, science to supplements, and personal care to packaged goods.

“El has truly dedicated his life to the natural products industry, particularly the independent health food retailer and their customers,” said NOW Health Group CEO Al Powers. “ His creative and visionary leadership has had a tremendous impact on our industry and has served to help people all over the world lead healthier lives.”

El founded NOW Foods over 40 years ago as a sideline to the family’s soy products business. More than four decades later, the company sells over 1,500 products in 68 countries and employs more than 600 people. In a time when most companies of NOW’s size and success have been sold to investment groups, or large mainstream companies, NOW is still owned by the Richard family. Although Elwood retired in 2005, he remains on the board of directors along with brother Lou, daughter Sharon Wong, and son Dan Richard. Three second-generation family members are in senior management: Dan Richard as National Sales Director, Mike Richard as Assistant to the President and Beth Pecenka as Business Development Manager. The company still adheres to its original mission: To provide value in products and services that empower people to lead healthier lives. --